Here in WV, we didn't get the memo that the mission was changed at NASA. We were following
the old one, from 2002:
NASA Mission
To understand and protect our home planet.
To explore the Universe and search for life.
To inspire the next generation of explorers...
as only NASA can.
New, Improved NASA mission:
To advance and communicate scientific knowledge and understanding of the earth, the solar system, and the universe.
To advance human exploration, use, and development of space.
To research, develop, verify, and transfer advanced aeronautics and space technologies.
So, less focus on earth, more focus on the moon and planets. Carries YOYO (you're on your own) to an absurd height.
For many years, NASA stayed relevant by working on missions intended to improve the quality of life on Earth. Now the vision is that NASA is an investment in American's future. So instead of protecting the planet, NASA is to help make money for the planet.
Why the sudden change? Well NASA climate scientist James E. Hansen started speaking out about greenhouse gasses and global warming. He was threatened by political appointees for sharing greenhouse gas fears..
Dr. Hansen's comments started a flurry of news media coverage in late January; on Feb. 3, Mr. Griffin issued a statement of "scientific openness."
The revised mission statement was released with the agency's proposed 2007 budget on Feb. 6. But Mr. Steitz said Dr. Hansen's use of the phrase and its subsequent disappearance from the mission statement was "pure coincidence."
Well it sounds like pure something! The administration doesn't want anyone to study global warming <puts fingers in ears and sings lalalala>.
Unfortunately, it is the hottest year on record in the USA, and there is terrible flooding on the East Coast. The West is on Fire and the power is failing, making it difficult to pretend it isn't hot.
The NASA PR flack interviewed for the NY Times story, David E. Steitz, said:
the agency might have to improve internal communications, but he defended the way the change was made, saying it reflected the management style of Michael D. Griffin, the administrator at the agency.
"Strategic planning comes from headquarters down," he said, and added, "I don't think there was any mal-intent or idea of exclusion."
The line about protecting the earth was added to the mission statement in 2002 under Sean O'Keefe, the first NASA administrator appointed by President Bush, and was drafted in an open process with scientists and employees across the agency.
No bottom up management or buyin for the mission needed here. NASA scientists are probably tired of studying the Big Bang and Creation right now too. Or anything earth related.
Seeing NASA and their amazing accomplishments might shame Bush, who can't move the country forward in a united fashion on a lofty goal. So shifting their mission should shut them down.